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Bicycle Repair Classes

There's no substitute for hands-on practice though, so that's what you'll find here: our Shop Class series will teach you everything you need to know to maintain and tune-up your bike, and entitles you to use the OCBC shop to do so.

The series of four classes repeat every month, and are held Saturdays from 4 to 6 pm, and Tuesdays from 6:30 to 8:30 pm.

The next class series start Tues. April 4th or Sat April 7th

Class size is limited, and students should bring their own bikes, or may work on one of the Co-op's. Pre-register and pay on the calendar page of this website, please — If there are not at least two students signed up by 10 AM the day of the class, that class will be canceled, and notice will be sent by email or website message to those enrolled — call the shop if you are not sure.

Taking the course of Basic Shop classes is what constitutes co-op membership; so you must take them before extensively using the shop facilities for personal projects, even if you consider yourself a great bike mechanic. The goal is for all members to have basic repair skills, so we don't have to charge labor to members for individual instruction, as some other co-ops do; and for all members to know what beginners have learned, so they can help others more effectively.

The cost is $20/ class, or you may pay with volunteer hours. Please pay for the entire series when you sign up to guarantee your place. Current members may re-take classes as often as they wish for free, with priority for workstands given to first-time students.

Shop classes are best taken in order, especially for beginners, and are held on the schedule below. There are brief descriptions on this page, or you can

1st week: Flats and Fit

(this class is included with bike purchase, supporting membership, or Bike Drivers' Ed)

Hands-on remove and replace wheels, with bike on the ground

Tire assessment

Causes of flats

Hands-on tire and tube change

Basic bike fit for comfort or speed

"The three S's" — hands-on basic safety check

This class will prepare you to fix the most frequent bike problem - flats. You will also learn how to make sure your bike is mechanically safe, and fits properly.

2nd week: Wheels and Bearings

How to use the work stands and shop tools

Hands-on remove and replace wheels, in the work stand

Bearing types, function and assessment

Bearing inspection and hands-on adjustment.

Wheel and rim types and assessment

Demonstration of wheel truing

Hands-on spoke and rim maintenance.

This class covers how bearings work, and wear out; and how to keep wheels from wobbling — two of the more mysterious aspects of bike repair for most folks.

3rd week: Cables and Brakes

Cable types, function, and assessment

Hands-on cable maintenance and adjustment

Brake types, function and assessment

Hands-on brake pad maintenance and adjustment

This class covers the most vexing and mishandled repair jobs on the bike: you will learn the proper use of tools and how to avoid dangerous and time-consuming mistakes.

4th week: Drivetrain

Chain function and assessment

Hands-on cleaning and lubrication, and chain breaking

Types, function and assessment of:

Bottom bracket

Gears

Shifters

Derailleurs

Hands-on maintenance and adjustment

This class covers the most complex bike system - you will learn how to keep your
bike in top shape for the longest time possible. Best to have taken the other classes first, as it will be assumed you have knowledge of bearings and cables.

Special Classes

Occasional fifth Saturday or Tuesday classes will cover topics such as Wheel Building, Bearing Overhaul, Single Speed Conversion, or Preparing Your Bike for Winter Cycling, Commuting, Touring, or Racing. These classes are usually $20 — members get their appropriate 10%, 30% or 45% discount but may not pay with shop hours, as the Co-op has committed to pay these special instructors.